I cannot help but blink my eyes several times and ask myself if I am having a brain freeze. Why? I just saw Dr. Jose Rizal walking in the flesh. You be the judge but for me, if he was alive he will exactly look like this man from Nepal.

I was sitting in the lobby of the hotel, resting after a very heady topic in a conference I attended, when into my right appeared Mr. Joey Concepcion Sr.

Seeing the once in a lifetime opportunity, I did not waste any time but ask him if I could have a picture with him beside me which he happily agreed.

For me, that is one moment of truth. JOECON to me as he is popularly known is one of the nationalist icon who is always on the forefront of national issues, leading the people's right be it for Democracy or against oil price increase.

To have a picture with him is an honor. To see the picture and interpret the meaning behind the man is inspirational.

My picture with him will always remind me that the Philippines is my country and I must do in any way positive things to help it achieve progress for the good of the many.

The last week of October until the holiday season is bazaar time in the country. Its mind boggling considering the fact that we have malls, ukay-ukay stores, and our regular local markets that offer the same things in the bazaars.

Its a Filipino Thing, i suppose. The haggling is one of its best feature and, of course, the thrill of finding something that cannot be found from other commercial establishments and the fact that you can get it cheap!

I don't want to sound Scrooge but retailers are predicting a lukewarm reception of the buyers and shoppers because of what's happening abroad.

But here's the thing, I have this friend who was working at Singapore and just took a one week respite last week in the Philippines. He was surprised that the malls are full and many are buying.

I guess only in the Philippines is the answer for this positive comment.

So my take, we will have a happy season despite the fact..

Bazaars will still be a profitable venture for those who have already have one.

But caveat to those who are planning to put up one today. It may not be wise.